Yoga & art retreat - Art Tours of Australia

Escape the chaos of city life and embark on a rejuvenating weekend in the West MacDonnell Ranges with Art Tours of Australia & Eloise Nicholson. This remote camping trip offers an unforgettable blend of yoga, nature, and artistic expression.

Set amidst the breathtaking beauty of Central Australia’s West MacDonnell Ranges, this transformative getaway allows you to reconnect with your inner self in a unique pristine wilderness environment. Awaken each day to the gentle melodies of nature and participate in invigorating yoga sessions led by Darwins own Eloise Nicholson. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a beginner, the serene landscapes will inspire and deepen your practice, leaving you feeling refreshed and centred.

1st-3rd September 2023

$1200pp

Inclusions

Daily yoga class
Guided walks
Art materials
Meals, snacks, hot drinks, water
Swags, dooner, pillow, tent
Pick up/drop off at your hotel
Airport transfers

During the day, explore the rugged splendour of the region alongside knowledgeable guides. Marvel at the ancient rock formations, discover hidden waterholes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant flora. As the sun sets, gather around the campfire, sharing stories and savouring the warmth of a campfire meal in your belly, before climbing into your cosy swag, surrounded by a landscape blanketed by stars.

ITINERARY

*The exact timings of this trip change throughout the year to sit with sunset times. The experience takes between 3-4 hours, and you can expect to be back in Alice Springs roughly 45 mins after sunset.

Pick up

We will drive from the Alice Springs airport or your accommodation in Alice Springs to our campsite by the Finke River, the oldest river system in the world.

Yoga classes

Elevate your well-being with expert-led yin yoga & meditation classes amidst the serene backdrop of the West MacDonnell Ranges. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a beginner, find inner balance and rejuvenation through tailored sessions in harmony with nature’s tranquillity, led by Eloise Nicholson. These classes are of a slow pace are safe for all fitness levels.

Walking experiences

We will embark on short but invigorating walks into some of the most spectacular places the region has to offer. We will walk a maximum of 8km per day, over uneven and rocky terrain. There may be a short river crossing on one of the walks. Low to moderate fitness is required for these walks.

Optional art class

If you choose to join these optional watercolour painting classes, you will be led through a series of basic watercolour techniques, using the surrounding landscape as inspiration for your paintings. All materials needed for the class are included.

Included meals

All meals are included, from snack platters, to healthy breakfasts. You can expect hearty campfire meals for dinner, and nourishing salads and sandwiches for lunch. There will always be snacks on offer (we love to eat).

Please let us know if you have any dietary requirements of preferences at point of booking so we can cater for you properly. There wont be access to shops when we’re out on the trip.

Drop off

We will head back to Alice Springs where you will be dropped off at your accommodation or the Alice Springs airport in the early afternoon.

Your trip leaders

Award winning tour guide Anna Dakin has partnered with Darwin’s own yoga teacher Eloise Nicholson to provide a space of solace in the stillness of the breathtaking Tjoritja region.

Having found the power of tranquility for themselves

Eloise Eloise has 7 years of yoga teaching experience and is Reiki 1 certified and is also a practicing Meditation Teacher. Eloise specialises in yin(certified from Byron Yoga Centre) and hatha based yoga to help you improve your daily mindfulness and assist in stress relief and improve mental health.

Anna has five years of experience in guiding adventure, camping, and hiking tours in Central Australia. Anna has a masters degree from the Royal College of Art in London, and enjoys teaching a range of art techniques outdoors.

Do I need to know how to do yoga or paint?

NO. All classes are suitable for absolute beginners, or experienced artists & yogi’s who want to go back to basics.

These classes are all about loosing up, having fun, and connecting with yourself in this unique environment.

Can I travel on my own?

We encourage groups, families, and solo travellers on all of our trips. This particular trip is ideal for solo female travellers looking to reconnect with themselves and other people.

Can I travel from another city?

Of course! Most people will be travelling to Alice Springs from another part of Australia. Flights are not included in the price – the Alice Springs airport is the closest airport.

I want to travel from Darwin

Flights are less than 2 hours and can be purchases via Qantas. It will be so worth it!

Will it be cold?

September is a wonderful time to soak up the nice warm sunny days and cooler evenings, perfect for a warm swag and star gazing. It is always worth bringing clothes to dress for warm days and cool nights.

What to bring:

Please let us know about any dietary or medical concerns when booking. This tour is weather-dependant.

Capacity to carry 3 litres of water
Travelling yoga mat or yoga towel for outdoor yoga practice
Warm layers: jacket, beanie, gloves
Sun protection: long sleeve shirt, sun hat, sunscreen
Comfortable closed toe shoes
Backpack for day walks
Additional walking equipment - poles, gaiters, anything you're used to using
Sleeping bag (dooner + pillow included)